About the Book
Since 1990,
Richard and Juanita Baker have visited Blue Cypress Lake many times, often
spending the night listening to a steady chorus of frogs and an occasional
gator. Rising before the sun, they
often witnessed the early changing light, and photographed and savored each moment
of their days at the lake. In these pages, they provide a vivid and factual account of the
lake’s history since its very beginning. Their photographs, narratives, and poems provide a reflective and
artistic perspective of the lake today, taking readers on a journey to one of
Florida’s natural treasures. In writing this book, the Bakers want to give
credit and express appreciation for those instrumental in bequeathing to us
Blue Cypress Lake in a nearly pristine condition.
Pelican
Island Audubon Society is fortunate to have the opportunity to bring the
Baker’s beautiful tribute to people everywhere who are interested in wildlife,
conservation, natural history, photography, or just experiencing one of
Florida’s very special places. By publishing Reflections of Blue Cypress, Audubon
hopes to:
- Enhance awareness of the unique natural
environment of Indian River County, Florida
- Advocate preserving what is left of our
remaining precious habitat and native species
- Illustrate the delicate balance of
nature and the tremendous impact that even slight human influences can
have
- Describe the unique circumstances that
have preserved this lake, encouraging us to take action immediately to
make a difference
- Increase public awareness of our
chapter’s goals
- Raise funds to support the chapter’s
education and environmental activities
Generous
donations of financial resources, personal time and expertise from many have
supported the book’s publication. All
profits from the sale of the book will accrue to Pelican Island Audubon
Society.
Audubon is
honored to have Dr. George Schaller of the Wilderness Conservation Society
write the forward. Instrumental in
preserving vast habitats worldwide, George Schaller's studies in Africa, the Himalayas,
Tibet, and China have been the bases for his numerous scientific and popular
writings. The winner of several awards, including the National Book award, he
has authored 15 books, including The Serengeti Lion, Stones of Silence, The
Year of the Gorilla, and The Last Panda.
